Address:1225 Stuart Robeson Drive Neighborhood: Merryhill Type: 3 BR, 4 (+2 half) BA townhouse — 5,500 sq. ft. Listed: $2,550,000
Noteworthy: Stunning renovated home in prime McLean location!
Welcome to McLean’s Merryhill Neighborhood — setting the standard for charm and sophistication, this exquisite Georgian-style Flemish bond brick townhome is a true masterpiece.
The residence radiates timeless elegance, from the inviting front courtyard with landscape up lighting to the slate roof and copper gutters that enhance its classic appeal. No expense was spared in the meticulous renovation of this 3-bedroom, 4 (+2 half) bath home, spanning over 5,550 square feet across three beautifully finished levels. The result is a remarkable showcase of modern luxury paired with refined design.
With its open, light-filled floor plan, stunning upgrades, and coveted McLean location, this home offers an unparalleled blend of convenience and grandeur.
Please explore the many exceptional features that make this residence at www.fergusonrealestateteam.com and come by our Open House on February 2 from 2-4 p.m. Please reach out to Rob Ferguson at RE/MAX Allegiance for more information.
By Richard Chew, Reston Association Elections Committee Chair
More than six decades ago, Robert E. Simon set out to create a community that would emphasize quality of life, where residents could live, work, and play in harmony, enjoying shared open spaces and scenic beauty.
Today, Reston stands as one of the region’s most well-respected communities, still grounded in Simon’s vision. The responsibility of maintaining that delicate balance between “live, work, play and get involved” rests with the Reston Association (RA) and its Board of Directors. Now more than ever, the Board plays a crucial role in preserving the character of Reston and its commitment to housing, open spaces, and community amenities.
If you’re passionate about shaping Reston’s future, we invite you to consider running for a position on the RA Board of Directors.
The RA Board of Directors guides the policies and procedures of the Association, ensuring the upkeep of more than 50 miles of trails, overseeing recreational programs, events, and facilities, and contributing to the development of the annual budget and key capital projects. Board members play an essential part in making sure that Reston continues to thrive as a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient community.
If you’re invested in Reston’s legacy and want to play a role in securing its future, consider running for one of three open seats on the Reston Association Board.
Your home should reflect your unique personality and adapt to your evolving lifestyle. If you want to upgrade your home without adding a home addition, there are countless ways to transform your home while staying within its current footprint.
From reimagining your kitchen to optimizing unused spaces, here are five impactful ideas to inspire your next home remodel.
1. Reimagine Your Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home — where meals are made, conversations happen, and memories are created. A kitchen remodel can completely transform how your home feels and functions. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, entertaining friends, or helping with homework at the island, a well-designed kitchen can make everyday life easier and more enjoyable.
To start, think about how you use your kitchen and what improvements would make the biggest difference. Do you need more prep space? Is your layout less than ideal for hosting gatherings? By identifying pain points, you can create a design that better suits your lifestyle.
Even within your home’s current footprint, the possibilities are endless. Modernizing the layout can improve efficiency, while custom cabinetry offers tailored storage solutions. Consider adding an oversized island that serves as a hub for cooking, dining, and socializing. Stylish upgrades like quartz countertops, a statement backsplash, or stainless-steel appliances can elevate the design. Don’t forget the details — smart storage, under-cabinet lighting, and modern hardware can make your kitchen both functional and beautiful.
Bold goals in 2025? Or just trying to find a fitness routine?
There is no better time to focus on your health, fitness, and well-being than right now! Whether you’re an avid gym-goer, weekend warrior, or simply striving to stay active, optimizing your movement is key to reaching your goals.
Designed to assess your body’s mechanics, this personalized evaluation identifies any movement imbalances, mobility restrictions, or areas of weakness that could hold you back — or worse, lead to injury. Think of it as a proactive approach to staying strong, mobile, and pain-free throughout the year.
At Rehab 2 Perform, we provide a modern approach to physical therapy that is movement and excise based. Our expert team will provide actionable insights tailored to your needs, ensuring you perform at your best in and out of the gym. Whether your goals include running your fastest mile, lifting heavier weights, or simply keeping up with your busy lifestyle, we’ll help you stay on track and move your best.
Don’t let minor aches or inefficiencies derail your progress. Take advantage of this complimentary assessment and make 2025 the year you move with confidence and purpose.
Ready to take the first step? Schedule your complimentary movement physical today at Rehab 2 Perform now.
Is 2025 your year to achieve something extraordinary?
Whether you’re advancing your career, building new skills, or exploring a fresh path, George Mason University is here to support your journey. Located in the heart of Arlington, Virginia, George Mason offers unmatched flexibility with part-time and full-time enrollment options, plus online, in-person, and hybrid classes, making it easier than ever to achieve your academic and professional goals.
Discover what’s possible at our Arlington Graduate Open House. This in-person event brings together four renowned schools to showcase their graduate programs, each designed to unlock exciting opportunities:
Antonin Scalia Law School
Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution
Costello College of Business
Schar School of Policy and Government
Date: Tuesday, February 4 Time: 5:30-7 p.m.
Location: Van Metre Hall Multipurpose Room, 3351 Fairfax Drive, Arlington, Virginia — conveniently accessible via the Virginia Square Metro (Orange/Silver Lines) and Metrobus/ART bus stops
What to Expect:
Connect with expert faculty
Explore program tables to find the right fit for your goals
Get a quick resume review
Speak directly with admissions representatives
See how a George Mason graduate degree can transform your future
This is a sponsored column by attorneys John Berry and Kimberly Berry of Berry & Berry, PLLC, an employment and labor law firm located in Northern Virginia that specializes in federal employee, security clearance, retirement and private sector employee matters.
By Melissa L. Watkins, Esq.
Security clearance questionnaires are an essential part of the process for individuals seeking access to classified information in the U.S. government or related sectors.
These forms, known as Standard Form 86 (SF-86) (electronically known as the eApp), require applicants to provide personal, professional, and financial details to assess their trustworthiness and reliability. Given the complexity of these forms and the high stakes involved in securing clearance, it’s not uncommon for applicants to make mistakes, whether unintentionally omitting information or providing incorrect details.
It is also the case that some individuals intentionally omit unfavorable information, for example, a prior criminal record, in hopes that it will increase their likelihood of being approved for a security clearance. Understanding how to address these issues promptly is crucial to maintaining both your eligibility for clearance and your integrity in the process.
Errors on the SF-86/eAPP
The SF-86 requires the applicant to disclose a wide range of sensitive data, including criminal history, financial status, foreign contacts, and drug use, among other things. Any misrepresentation, even if accidental, can lead to significant consequences, such as delayed processing, denial of clearance, or potential disqualification.
For those misrepresentations that are material to determining if someone is qualified to hold a security, such errors can call into question the applicant’s integrity and potentially lead to security concerns related to personal conduct. The government relies heavily on the accuracy of the information provided to make determinations about a person’s suitability for access to national security information. Therefore, correcting mistakes in your submission should be a top priority.
At Synergy Design & Construction, we know the holidays can be both magical and demanding. From festive gatherings to last-minute guests and everything in between, it’s no wonder so many of us find ourselves feeling frazzled. The good news? With some intentional planning and strategic design choices, your home can become a soothing sanctuary that helps you embrace the season with comfort and ease.
We’re sharing our approach to creating a holiday environment that nurtures connection, encourages relaxation, and feels truly welcoming. From pre-holiday decluttering and flex spaces to savvy lighting and thoughtful décor, these tips will help transform your home into a calming oasis — one that reflects your style and supports your busy life.
Declutter for Peace of Mind
Before you hang the wreath or stock up on eggnog, spend some time clearing out what you don’t need. Think of it like prepping a canvas before you start painting. By removing clutter, you’ll free up space — both physically and mentally — for all the joys of the season.
Focus first on the kitchen, living room, and entryway, as these areas typically see the most holiday traffic. In the kitchen, clear off crowded countertops and organize the pantry for easy access to all those festive ingredients. In the living room, pare down everyday décor to make room for special seasonal pieces. And at the entryway, streamline coats and shoes so guests aren’t tripping over clutter when they arrive.
Multitasking Made Easy: Flexible Holiday Spaces
See more before and afters of this Lake Newport Basement Remodel here.
When the holidays roll in, it’s normal to need spaces that adapt quickly to new demands. Embracing multi-functional areas helps ensure your home can handle anything from a cozy family movie night to wrapping a flurry of gifts.
A Gift-Wrapping Oasis
Transforming a corner of your basement or bonus room into a dedicated wrapping station keeps tape, paper, and ribbons organized and out of your main living areas. With all your supplies in one place, you can focus on the fun of presenting beautifully wrapped gifts — without worrying about clearing the dining table every time you take a break.
Office by Day, Guest Room by Night
If you anticipate overnight visitors, consider a built-in Murphy bed or a sleeper sofa in your home office. During the day, it’s a productive workspace; at night, it seamlessly becomes a comfortable guest retreat. Modern Murphy beds and quality convertible sofas blend style with function, ensuring your guests feel welcomed, not stashed away.
Designing With Intention
Furniture arrangement might seem like a small detail, but it can have a big impact on how guests connect and engage. Arrange seating to encourage conversation rather than facing everyone toward the TV. Pulling chairs and sofas slightly away from walls also helps create more intimate conversation zones.
When adding seasonal décor, remember that less can often be more. A well-placed wreath, a beautifully dressed mantel, or a simple centerpiece can speak volumes. Highlight the qualities you love about your home — such as a freshly remodeled kitchen island or an elegant fireplace — by choosing décor that enhances, rather than competes with, its natural beauty.
Lighting and Ambiance
Lighting can instantly shift the mood from frenzied to festive. Instead of relying solely on overhead lights, layer your illumination sources. Floor lamps, table lamps, and dimmable fixtures allow you to control brightness and create a cozy, intimate environment. Candles and string lights are a simple yet effective way to add warmth and charm — think flickering flames along the mantel or twinkling lights inside a decorative bowl.
With the right lighting strategy, you can effortlessly transition from a lively family gathering in the afternoon to a peaceful fireside chat in the evening.
Little Details, Big Impact
See more before and afters of this Cypress Point Kitchen Remodel here.
Preparation is key when it comes to easing the stress of holiday hosting. If you have guests staying overnight, set out fresh linens, a decorative throw, and perhaps a scented candle to create a soothing retreat. In common areas, keep a few seasonal treats and beverages accessible so guests can help themselves without feeling like they’re imposing. Don’t forget the practical extras: have an extra phone charger handy, along with basic toiletries, spare blankets, and bottled water.
Get ahead of the holiday rush by setting the table the night before a big meal and prepping ingredients in advance. Stock up on necessities like napkins, utensils, and serving dishes well before guests arrive. These small steps free you up to participate in the celebrations rather than feeling like you’re racing from one task to another.
Prioritize Personal Comfort
See more before and afters of this Carper’s Farm Remodel here.
With so much focus on making others feel welcome, it’s easy to forget about your own needs. Treat yourself to small moments of calm — a warm bath, a quiet reading break, or even a quick meditation session in a favorite room. Prioritizing your well-being helps you remain present and appreciative during this special time.
Reimagine the Holidays
Envision walking into a home that not only looks ready for the holidays, but feels ready, too. That sense of ease and calm doesn’t happen by accident — it’s the result of intentional design choices and proactive planning.
If you’re curious about how a future remodel or redesign can support a more harmonious holiday season, Synergy Design & Construction is here to help. We’re dedicated to creating homes that look beautiful and function brilliantly all year long — especially during life’s most meaningful celebrations.
With a thoughtful approach to decluttering, flexible spaces, furniture arrangements, lighting, and personal care, you can transform the busy energy of the holidays into something more restful and rewarding. Let’s turn your home into a haven where treasured moments flow freely and the hustle of the season is met with a relaxed, welcoming embrace.
Visit RenovateHappy.com to learn more about Synergy Design & Construction.
Changing what healthcare looks like, Rehab 2 Perform serves the active adult, competitive athlete, and those looking to be more active through a fitness focused, and modern approach to physical therapy.
Schedule your complimentary injury consult with Rehab 2 Perform Physical Therapy today!
Do you know your Benefits? Have you met your Deductible?
As we near the end of the year, many of you might find yourselves in a situation where your insurance deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums have already been met for the year, meaning the insurance company will typically pay 100% of your medical costs. This means that the cost of physical therapy could be minimal or completely covered by insurance. It is time to treat yourself to your healthiest self.
This is a sponsored column by attorneys John Berry and Kimberly Berry of Berry & Berry, PLLC, an employment and labor law firm located in Northern Virginia that specializes in federal employee, security clearance, retirement and private sector employee matters.
By John V. Berry, Esq.
Our law firm defends federal employees in investigations and disciplinary actions. Almost all federal employee disciplinary cases start with a misconduct investigation. When a federal employee is subject to an investigation, it is essential to retain a federal employee lawyer as soon as possible.
Issues Commonly Investigated by Agencies
While anything can prompt an investigation by a federal agency, some of the more common issues that trigger an investigation include the following:
Absence Without Leave
General Misconduct at Work
Lack of Candor or Integrity Issues
Misuse of a Government Computer/Internet/Fax
Misuse of a Government Credit Card, Vehicle or Travel Card
Public Complaints
Sexual Harassment or Discrimination in the Workplace
Federal employee investigations usually start when the individual is called by an investigator to set up an interview. Investigators almost never provide specific information about the nature of an investigation until the federal employee arrives at the meeting.
The type of investigator assigned to the case can vary. The investigator can be a supervisor, an agency investigator, an individual from human resources, or an agent assigned by the agency’s Office of Inspector General (OIG). Federal employees usually start out with very little information when the process starts.
Investigative Interviews
In many instances, a federal employee will attend the scheduled meeting and an investigator will just start asking them questions. This can be problematic if the individual doesn’t have legal counsel. In some cases, however, the interviewer may start by asking the federal employee to sign a statement agreeing to be voluntarily interviewed and waiving all of their rights. This is the most common method and offers little protection to a federal employee.
This holiday season, we’re partnering with Brx American Bistro to create a cozy, memorable experience for you and your loved ones.
At Rossen Landscape, we believe in making every moment spent at home meaningful and inviting, so we’re adding a touch of seasonal charm to your space to help set the stage for unforgettable gatherings.
🎁 Here’s what’s included in our Holiday Giveaway:
🍽️ A $150 Gift Card to Brx American Bistro.
🔥 Cozy up this season with a Solo Bonfire Firepit by Rossen Landscape, bringing warmth and unforgettable moments to your outdoor gatherings!
🌿 Bonus: A stylish planter pot that fits perfectly into the firepit, transforming it into a decorative piece when not in use.
1️⃣ One additional entry for each person you tag and would like to share this experience with.
2️⃣ Sign up for Rossen and BRX’s email lists for an additional entry.
3️⃣ Share this post to your story for an additional entry.
Let’s make your holiday season a time for connection, warmth, and celebration. Enter for your chance to create memories that last a lifetime!
Giveaway ends December 20. Winner will be announced on December 23.
